Small man's beef

I am a part-time one man band who, for the other half of my time, produces beef and lamb on the hoof. On several occasions recently I have been asked to discover the reason for tripping mcbs in domestic situations, mostly in kitchens. In each case the problem has been simple to identify: a large number of 13 A power outlets, heavily loaded, on a long radial circuit wired in 2·5 mm T&E 6242Y protected by a 20 A breaker. In each case the house had been fitted with a consumer unit by the same large local electrical contractor, a member of the ECA and the NICEIC.

I contacted the ECA and NICEIC to report this improper circuit, which while protected correctly, was inadequate for the anticipated load. I regret to say that neither organisation was willing to examine my findings or comment. I advised the contractor by letter of my findings but was not treated to the courtesy of a reply.

I do not doubt that NRT do an excellent job but their charges for small works must be considerably higher than the small contractor, who, while accepting responsibility for the job undertaken and being qualified and insured, do not have the overheads of the larger operations. My turnover prior to foot and mouth last year rarely exceeded £18 000 and the cost of membership of the two organisations as a percentage of profit was not justifiable. I do, however, spend time and money on regulation changes courses and read trade papers to keep abreast of amendments.

It seems there may need to be a 'whistle blowers' facility put in place to protect the public from both the small cowboy and the corporate sheriff. Suggestions, please.
Peter J W Bennett
Hawick
Roxburghshire